Malawi Writers Union (Mawu) has appealed for support to raise K4 million to enable 10 writers to attend a regional writers’ workshop in Zambia from April 24 to 27.
The event, organised by Copper Monstera Entertainment Zambia, will be facilitated by renowned authors Zukiswa Wanner and Natasha Omokhodion and offers participants an opportunity to sharpen their craft, keep abreast with regional literary trends and build networks.
In an interview yesterday, Mawu president Shadreck Chikoti said the union has raised K2 million of the required K6 million.
“The total cost for the trip is estimated at K6 million, but Mawu has so far raised K2 million. The union is appealing for sponsorship to cover the remainder which will cover accommodation, meals and logistics,” he said.
According to Chikoti, the 10 writers were selected through a rigorous process, marking the first time the union will be sending such a large delegation to an international workshop.
He said the move is part of the union’s efforts to strengthen its partnerships and provide growth opportunities for local writers.
Said Chikoti: “This workshop will help our writers to enhance their writing skills and expose them to different literary perspectives.
“This is the first time in three decades we will have such a number of writers travel together. The union is confident that this workshop will help reinvigorate Malawi’s literary scene and empower writers to compete regionally and globally.”
He said those willing to support can contact the union directly.
In a separate interview, one of the writers, Grace Athauye Sharra, said attending the workshop will provide an opportunity to interact with other writers around Africa.
“This is big for us as women writers not only for mentorship and networking reasons, but also as an ideal platform for diverse women voices,” she said.
Founded in 1996, Mawu promotes reading and writing in Malawi.
